BPWin 4.58 features new NAND Flash options that will allow users to customize multiple partitions using a single algorithm when programming NAND devices. Special Spare Area calculations can be added as needed without having to change the algorithm. The user can specify partitions with an arbitrary number of required addresses and specify how they align to the buffer. This feature is available to all NAND Flash devices that support it. NAND Flash is used in numerous applications that involve the data file to be partitioned. For instance, the file may consist of an initial bootloader, followed by a bootup image, and data partitions. Depending on the application, each partition has a logical address to which it must map for correct functionality. Due to the presence of bad blocks, data on a device can shift, in terms of the actual address, to which it is programmed. It becomes essential that the algorithm used to program the NAND Flash guarantees that each partition starts at the exact specified logical address on the device. NAND Flash options in the BPWin software allow for this functionality. Spare Area schemes allow fills or ECC (Error Correction Code) calculations “on the fly” during programming and verifying without modifying the buffer.
A.C.E. Production Technologies introduces a Dual Head Fluxer option that facilitates quick changeover of flux types. Is designed to meet the needs of selective soldering applications that demand quick changeover from leaded to no-lead solders, a common concern among electronics assemblers transitioning to Pb-free. The feature enhances the flexible KISS 102 programmable selective soldering system. The dual head fluxing system makes it possible to change flux types quickly and complements a fast solder pot changeover time. Is a spray-type, system, with controllable spray point size, pattern and deposition volume. The maintenance-free spray head is controllable down to a spot size of 2 mm. Rugged, reliable and compact, the programmable KISS 102 features a Pb-free compatible solder pot and is ideal for assembly, prototyping and rework, post-reflow offline assembly and other soldering applications such as odd-form devices.
Promation has released its latest version of the ELM-700AYL Laser Marking system for PCBs.
The software enhancements now allow for all standard True Type Windows based fonts to be used through an easy-to-navigate interface.
It also allows for easy import of JPEG, GIF and BMP raster formats and DXF, WME and PLT vector formats. The GUI has the look and feel of most Windows-based systems.
Other features include: WYSIWYG drawing editor; zoom in, zoom out and panning; inch, millimeter or centimeter units; unlimited multilevel undo and redo; Virtual Laser Marking; adjustable field size (square or rectangular); rotating of entire mark field (one-degree increments); rotate, scale, translate and mirror all text; and more.
MK26 vibration isolation workstation is designed for ultra-low natural frequency applications. It uses Minus Kpatented negative-stiffness vibration isolators to provide a compact, passive workstation with ultra-low natural frequencies, high internal structural frequencies and vertical and horizontal isolation efficiencies.
Minus Kvertical isolator uses a stiff spring and a negative-stiffness mechanism to achieve a low net vertical stiffness without affecting the static load supporting capability. Horizontal isolation is provided by beam columns connected in series with the vertical-motion isolator. Adjusted to a .5 Hz natural frequency, the workstation achieves 93% isolation efficiency at 2 Hz, 99% at 5 Hz, and 99.7% at 10 Hz.
Can be configured for a variety of applications where disturbances due to external vibrations can adversely affect the operation of sensitive equipment. Customization options include guard rails, padded armrests, overhead equipment shelves, monitor stands, non-isolated shelves for supporting equipment off the tabletop, oversized keyboard shelves, retractable casters, Faraday Cages to protect sensitive operations from electromagnetic interference, tabletop enclosures to protect against harsh manufacturing environments and electrical accessories such as outlet strips for lighting.
Available with up to 650 pounds (295Kg) gross load capacity. Is Class 100 cleanroom compatible, with Class 10 available. Tabletops can be ordered in two sizes (30" x 36" and 36" x 48") and either in lightweight “honeycomb” or composite construction.
Speedline Technologies has released Benchmark Operating Software version 1.6 for the MPM Accela printer.
New options include:
Integration of Grid-Lok board support tooling within hardware and software.
StencilVision is now a standalone option for customers to add this bridge prevention tool on printers that are in-line with Paste AOI systems.
An upstream bar code reader enables bar code capture on either the top or bottom side of the substrate, and the storage of that unique number with the SPC data; enabling data tracking and more exact recordkeeping.
A temperature and humidity sensor option captures and displays data, storing it in the SPC file for further analysis.
RheoPump option operation is enhanced, allowing quick change from pump to blades and vice versa for rapid changeover.
The release also broadens fiducial recognition capability, integrates online Help and increases the number of user wizards and templates.
DownStream Technologies is shipping BluePrint for PCBs Release 1.0. The software helps users quickly create the documentation that drives PCB fabrication, assembly and inspection. The first shipment of the product included sales to a cross-section of the PCB industry including PCB design and engineering groups, PCB prototype manufacturers and contract manufacturers in the U.S. and Europe.
Development began over 3 years ago. “We see BluePrint as major milestone in our product development strategy to automate the PCB release process,” said Rick Almeida, one of DownStream’s founders. “By working closely with PCB designers we had learned they face a significant challenge in trying to post-process their designs for successful manufacturing. Not only did they need to generate CAM outputs, but they also needed a way to collect and manage the myriad of data files that are needed to build a PCB assembly. By delivering BluePrint Release 1.0, combined with our flagship product CAM350, we are realizing a major milestone in our product strategy. Our customers now have the ability to create manufacturing tooling aids such as Gerber and NC files, as well as Fabrication Assembly Drawings and Parts Lists and deliver them in a single, electronic package to manufacturing,” said Almeida.
BluePrint uses the available PCB design intelligence to automatically create and link unlimited PCB views and details resulting in a detailed, accurate documentation package. Documentation packages contain all the data necessary to build, view and archive the final product anywhere, anytime.
“The creation of accurate PCB manufacturing drawings is often overlooked as an important aspect of the PCB design process. With the introduction of BluePrint this area of concern has been completely solved,” said Martin Davies, a PCB Designer in the UK who participated in the beta program. “BluePrint gives us an efficient tool that will enable us to provide consistent, thorough and accurate PCB manufacturing documentation.”